Green Kyllinga Control in Bermudagrass Lawns

A homeowner battled green kyllinga (Kyllinga brevifolia), a sedge invading their bermudagrass each August and September. The weed thrives in overwatered lawns. The expert recommended watering only once weekly (absent rain) and applying pre-emergent herbicides (benefin, bensulide, dithiopyr, pendimethalin, or prodiamine) in March and early June.

For post-emergence control, halosulfuron or imazaquin are effective. Both are labeled for sedge control in warm-season grasses. Proper mowing height and fertility also help bermudagrass outcompete the invader.

Integrated Approach:

• Reduce irrigation frequency.
• Apply pre-emergent twice yearly.
• Spot-treat emerged plants with halosulfuron or imazaquin.
• Maintain dense turf through proper mowing and fertilization.

Persistence is key—sedges are tough but manageable.